Most motorcycle riders in Atlanta understand that riding a bike comes with risks. Motorcyclists are less protected than other drivers if an accident happens, and many motorists fail to account for motorcyclists’ rights on the road. If you were injured on your bike or a loved one was killed in a motorcycle accident, it’s time to speak with an Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer.
Our attorneys have been helping motorcycle accident victims win what they deserve for more than 20 years. We have seen the toll an accident can have on your finances, physical health, and overall well-being. Our firm is dedicated to getting you compensation for the damages that were not your fault.
Contact us today and we’ll get you started with a FREE consultation. We can go over the details of your case and discuss your best legal options. Call or contact us online to get your FREE consultation today.
Time Limits for Your Atlanta Motorcycle Wreck Case
Georgia law has a statute of limitations for personal injury claims, but the specific deadline for your case can vary depending on a variety of factors. Typically, you have two years from the date of your motorcycle accident in Atlanta to file a claim.
However, there are some situations that give you a bit longer. For example, you can sue for loss of consortium with a spouse (as a result of your injuries) within four years. On the other hand, you’ll need to bring your case to court much sooner if the at-fault party is the government.
Speaking with a knowledgeable motorcycle accident lawyer in Atlanta is the best way to determine exactly what your deadline is and ensure that your paperwork is filed on time.
Types of Cases We Take On
Our attorneys have plenty of experience handling cases just like yours. We have worked with clients who suffered a wide range of injuries, including:
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Road rash
- Lacerations
- Neck, shoulder, or back injuries
- Injuries that lead to death
Under Georgia law, drivers who cause your injuries can be held liable for the damages they inflict. Our Atlanta motorcycle crash lawyers understand how to get you the compensation you and your family need.
Why Motorcycle Accidents Happen
The sad truth is that many motorcycle accidents are preventable. If drivers would exercise more caution and diligence on Atlanta roads, there would be far fewer accidents. Unfortunately, not everyone is as careful as they should be after getting behind the wheel.
Motorcycle accidents can occur because of:
- Drunk driving
- Distracted driving
- Drowsy driving
- Road rage or aggressive driving
- Poor road conditions
- Inclement weather
- Faulty vehicle parts
Even when a motorcycle accident does not directly involve another driver, a person or party may be responsible. For example, if an unsafe road condition causes a motorcyclist to be thrown from their bike or run off the road and hit a tree, the party responsible for road upkeep might be liable. This is often a local or state government entity.
Malfunctioning Parts
If a motorcycle accident happens because of malfunctioning bike parts or poor maintenance, a manufacturer or mechanic may be to blame. Before making any assumptions about fault in your accident, it’s best to contact a motorcycle accident lawyer who can look at the facts. Even if you think you were fully responsible for the accident, you might discover otherwise after talking to a legal professional.
Liability, Fault, and Compensation in an Atlanta Motorcycle Crash
To seek compensation for your damages, you will need to file a personal injury case against the at-fault party. To have a successful case, you’ll need to show:
- Who was responsible for the accident
- How the at-fault party caused your accident
- Your total damages from the accident
Even though you were the accident victim, legally, the burden is on you to prove the other party’s liability for the accident and your damages. This is very difficult to do alone, which is why we suggest working with an experienced and trusted motorcycle accident attorney in Atlanta.
How You Can Seek Compensation for Your Damages
Common damages from a motorcycle accident in Atlanta include:
- Medical costs
- Lost wages
- Vehicle damage
- Pain and suffering
However, those are not the only forms of damages for which you can seek compensation.
Punitive Damages
In some situations, you may be eligible for punitive damages, which are meant to punish the wrongdoer and discourage further wrongdoing. These damages are more common in cases involving incredibly careless or wanton behavior, such as drunk driving. Your lawyer can let you know your full compensation options based on your accident.
Wrongful Death Damages
If a loved one was killed in a motorcycle accident, you might be eligible to file an Atlanta wrongful death claim on the deceased’s behalf. A wrongful death claim can include damages like:
- Medical costs
- Pain and suffering
- Funeral costs
- Burial costs
- Loss of consortium or companionship
Talk to an Atlanta motorcycle accident lawyer right away to know your options. They can help you navigate this tragic time so that you can focus on being with loved ones – but worrying about the legal side of things.
Settlement vs Trial
There are two ways you can seek compensation for motorcycle accident damages:
- Through the settlement of an insurance claim
- Through an award at trial
Most accident claims are settled well before the case ever goes to trial. If you have a powerful lawyer helping you with your claim, you have a much higher chance of getting a fair settlement and moving on from the accident. However, some situations do warrant filing a lawsuit, and your lawyer will help you every step of the way if that is necessary.
Why You Should NOT Accept the Insurance Company’s First Offer
In most cases, insurance companies will attempt to contact you very quickly after your motorcycle wreck in Atlanta. Their goal is to offer you the absolute minimum amount as a settlement so that they save money.
If you accept their initial offer, you likely lose the opportunity to seek full compensation through a lawsuit. We recommend politely declining to discuss your case at all with insurance agents until after you have spoken with an experienced Atlanta motorcycle accident attorney.
Get a Free Consultation with an Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
Don’t wait to get help with your motorcycle accident claim. Our attorneys have more than 20 years of experience getting victims and their families the compensation they deserve. To learn more and get a FREE consultation, call us or contact us online today.
